Arslanbek Makhumdov and Jared Anderson Need Each Other Now
On October 28, Russian heavyweight contender Arslanbek “Lion” Makhmudov (17-0, 16 KO’s) will compete on the undercard of Tyson Fury versus Francis Ngannou. In this contest, Makhmudov, ranked #3 (WBC), #5 (WBA), #10 (IBF) and #13 (WBO), will test his might against Agron Smakici. Although it’s good that Lion is aiming to remain active, having just fought this past July, some would love to see Makhmudov face more formidable competition. At the top of that list is fellow heavyweight contender Jared “Big Baby” Anderson (16-0, 15 KO’s).
Before he can elevate his competition though, Lion must first best Smakici who just competed on September 30 when he defeated Jozsef Kormany. This win slammed the Croatian back in the win column as six months prior, Smakici suffered his second defeat, by knockout, at the hands of Agit Kabayel. While this match should turn out to be a great showcase fight for Makhmudov, it’s getting a bit overdue for him to begin stepping up his level of competition.
IN HOUSE RUMBLE?
As has been reported by 3Kings Boxing, Lion has long been a person of interest ever since he stepped into the professional ranks. Since he began collecting checks for dispensing beatings, he’s performed as expected. The question now though: will he maintain his sterling performances when the level of opposition increases?
Provided that Makhmudov does seek to fry bigger fish, choosing to face Anderson is a solid selection. To begin, both Anderson and Makhmudov are Top Rank stablemates and, therefore, don’t have any boxing politics to overcome. Secondly, within the American market, Anderson has a far more recognizable name and has already headlined a primetime fight card. The most glaring reason that Big Baby, ranked #2 (WBO), #6 (WBC), #7 (IBF) and #8 (WBA), would make a great next opponent is because Anderson has already called out Lion.
While Big Baby may be a bit further up the road in terms of popularity, like Makhmudov, Anderson is also trying to prove he is an elite heavyweight right now. For this reason, the would-be duel versus Lion would be very beneficial to whoever prevailed in the prizefight. First though, we must wait to see what transpires on October 28. Assuming that Makhmudov takes care of business, let’s hope that he returns the show of interest in a scuffle with Big Baby Anderson by calling him out.
